Andrew Lloyd Webber’s 1970 rock opera “Jesus Christ Superstar,” a longtime favorite with audiences around the world, returns to the stage of the Downtown Cabaret Theatre Friday, March 16, through Sunday, April 8.

In a news release, the theater noted the musical, with lyrics by Tim Rice, “follows Christ’s final days, dramatized with emotional intensity, thought-provoking edge and explosive theatricality. Jesus Christ’s meteor-like rise provides a parallel to contemporary celebrity worship, and as his radical teachings are evermore embraced, Judas increasingly questions the enlightened motives of this new prophet, resulting in betrayal. Propelled by a stirring score, by turns driving and majestic, satirical and tender, this rock opera illuminates the transcendent power of the human spirit.”

In an email chat artistic director Eli Newsom said, “‘Jesus Christ Superstar’ has been on our short list to bring back to the cabaret for several years now, given the successful history producing this piece that dates back to the 1980s. Along with the signature venue attributes, such as the excellent rock and roll lighting and sound that the cabaret is known for, our all-local cast is filled with talented and diverse performers, which has also become a signature of the company.”

Executive producer Hugh Hallinan added that the musical is “the kind of raw-meat material our audiences eat up — a tried-and-true rock opera that continues to stand up to the test of time.”

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